Anger, grief and outrage in an outpouring of emotion

SPONTANEOUS vigils for Savita took place last night in Dublin, Cork and the Irish Embassy in London -- and attracted people from all walks of life.

As politicians left Leinster House, they were met by hundreds on Kildare Street, drawn there by the tragedy of Savita Halappanavar.

More than 1,000 people gathered outside the Dail in memory of the 31-year-old who died in Galway University Hospital.

Holding candles, they called for the X Case to be legislated for after 20 years of waiting.

"It was an emotional and sombre affair, mainly to remember Savita but also to call for changes," said Sinead Kennedy of the 'Action on X' group. "But there was shock and disbelief too, and a feeling that now we could be at the beginning of the end of this terrible delay in getting legislation," she added.

As well as the gathering at Leinster House vigils were also held outside the Opera House in Cork, in Galway and at the Irish Embassy in London, attracting hundreds.

And the pressure on the Government is set to be repeated this weekend when people are expected to gather at the Garden of Remembrance and walk to Leinster House at 4pm on Saturday.

"We would ask for a large attendance on this very important issue," said Sinead Kennedy.